Barium Swallow

This X-ray examination of your oesophagus (gullet), stomach and duodenum will be performed by a technologist who is an expert in the use of X-ray equipment, and a radiologist, who is a doctor specialising in medical diagnosis using X-rays.

Available from Cashmere Radiology, and St George's Radiology.

TIME

The examination usually takes 10-20 minutes, but you should allow 30-40 minutes for the overall visit.

FEMALE PATIENTS

If you are pregnant, or think you might be, please notify us prior to your appointment.

HOW TO PREPARE

Do not have anything to eat or drink for six hours before the examination. Do not smoke during this time. Continue to take all your usual medications.

WHAT TO EXPECT

You will be asked to remove most of your clothing and will be given a gown to wear.

After you have entered the X-ray room you will be asked to lie on, or stand against the X-ray table.

You will be given a cup of white fluid (barium) to drink. This does not taste too bad but does have a chalky texture. You will probably be asked to drink another fluid from a small container. This makes gas in your stomach which is needed to get the best pictures. It is very important that you try not to burp.

The table may be moved to a horizontal postion, you will be warned before this happens.

You may also be asked to swallow a marshmallow.

HOW IT WORKS

Normally your oesophagus, stomach and duodenum do not show up on X-ray films because they are similar in density to the surrounding tissues.

Barium is a harmless material which forms a thin lining on the inside of your stomach and digestive tract so that the surfaces are clearly outlined. The marshmallow allows the radialogist to assess oesophageal motility.

The barium will make your motions pale for several days. It is heavy and will settle in the toilet, so flush twice.

If you suffer from constipation, tell the technologist. If you wish she / he will give you a mild laxative to help you pass the barium.

AFTERWARDS

You may resume your normal diet immediately after the examination. Drink plenty of fluids.

WHAT ABOUT THE RESULTS

The radiologist will study your films and the report will be sent to your referrer